Scripture to Read: Romans 4:9–12
As we continue our walk through Romans 4, today we focus on Romans 4:9–12. God had Paul ask this question and then include a quantifying statement in Romans 4:9: “Is this blessing then on the circumcised, or on the uncircumcised also? For we say, ‘Faith was credited to Abraham as righteousness.’” As we have discussed in earlier devotions, many Jews in Paul’s day believed that Christ only came to save the Jews and that circumcision was an essential part of salvation. So, this first question that God had Paul write to the believing Jews was a game-changer for many of them. Therefore, God had Paul ask the following questions (with the answers included) in Romans 4:10–11, “How then was it credited? While he was circumcised, or uncircumcised? Not while circumcised, but while uncircumcised; 11 and he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while uncircumcised, so that he might be the father of all who believe without being circumcised, that righteousness might be credited to them.” The Jews had to accept that Abraham was made right with God by placing his faith in God before he was circumcised. God also clarified that circumcision was the sign that Abraham already had faith and that God accepted him and made him righteous before he was circumcised. God confirmed the promise He had given Abraham in Genesis 12:3 in that Abraham would be the spiritual father of many nations, including the circumcised and uncircumcised, as long as their faith was in God.
Challenge & Application
Why is it important to understand that God offers salvation to all, not just the Jewish nation?
How are you living and proclaiming your faith in Christ each day?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!